Creek ‘clear of fibres’

ERIN PEARSON
TESTING has cleared soil in Jan Juc Reserve of potentially deadly asbestos fibres, according to RACV.
The insurance giant revealed the results of its “independent specialist” tests this week after EPA confirmed late last month the discovery of asbestos in the reserve.
The asbestos was found in building waste dumped as in-fill during work on a stormwater pipe linked to RACV’s Torquay Golf Club redevelopment.
The discovery led to fencing-off of the reserve between Duffields Rd and Hoylake Ave.
Residents expressed concerns about the health and safety of families who used the reserve while the asbestos was left exposed and unsecured for over a month.
RACV said the specialist had tested soil in a trench line through the reserve.
“In addition to the preliminary results…(that) indicated the vast majority of the reserve where the civil work was done is clear of contamination, Bureau Veritas has reported that no asbestos fibres were found in the soil tested.
“A detailed remediation plan was received yesterday from Bureau Veritas and this has been submitted by RACV to the EPA, Surf Coast Shire and WorkSafe for their agreement.
“Once the relevant approvals have been received the rectification works will commence immediately.”
RACV said it would engage an independent specialist to oversee the works.
“Access to the site is expected to remain restricted until the work is completed.”
RACV said a subcontractor had sourced the asbestos-contaminated soil from another site.
Kane Constructions, which is working on the golf club redevelopment, denied any involvement with the pipeline project.
Surf Coast Shire revealed another asbestos discovery in a public place this week.
The shire said Anglesea Skate Park was closed “until further notice”.
Mayor Brian McKiterick said fencing and signage indicating the asbestos discovery would remain in place during further testing.
Cr McKiterick urged anyone seeking more information to phone the shire on 5261 0600 or visit its website for “regular updates”.
A third asbestos discovery rocked Bells Beach last year.
The Independent discovered in the sand chunks of material from a damaged and exposed asbestos pipe beside stairs to the beach.